Netgear WGX102v1 Reference Guide

Reference Manual for the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102

NETGEAR, Inc.

4500 Great America Parkway Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA

202-10042-01 Version 1.0 September 2004

September 2004 202-10042-01

Trademarks

NETGEAR is a trademark of Netgear, Inc. Microsoft, Windows, and Wi ndow s NT are registered trademar ks of Microsoft Corporation. Other brand and product names are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective holders.

Statement of Conditions

In the interest of improving internal design, operational function, and/or reliability, NETGEAR reserves the right to make changes to the products described in this document without notice.

NETGEAR does not assume any liability that may occur due to the use or application of the product(s) or circuit layout(s) described herein.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Compliance Notice: Radio Frequency Notice

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruct ions, may cause harmf ul interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

EN 55 022 Declaration of Conformance

This is to certify that the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102 is shielded against the generation of radio interference in accordance with the application of Council Directive 89/336/EEC, Article 4a. Conformity is declared by the application of EN 55 022 Class B (CISPR 22).

Bestätigung des Herstellers/Importeurs

Es wird hiermit bestätigt, daß das 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102 gemäß der im BMPT-AmtsblVfg 243/1991 und Vfg 46/1992 aufgeführten Bestimmungen entstört ist. Das vorschriftsmäßige Betreiben einiger Geräte (z.B. Testsender) kann jedoch gewissen Beschränkungen unterliegen. Lesen Sie dazu bitte die Anmerkungen in der Betriebsanleitung.

Das Bundesamt für Zulassungen in der Telekommunikation wurde davon unterrichtet, daß dieses Gerät auf den Markt gebracht wurde und es ist berechtigt, die Serie auf die Erfüllung der Vorschriften hin zu überprüfen.

Certificate of the Manufacturer/Importer

It is hereby certified that the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102 has been suppressed in accordance with the conditions set out in the BMPT-AmtsblVfg 243/1991 and Vfg 46/1992. The operation of some

September 2004 202-10042-01

equipment (for example, test transmitters) in accordance with the regulations may, however, be subject to certain restrictions. Please refer to the notes in the operating instructions.

Federal Office for Telecommunications Approvals has been notified of the placing of this equipment on the market and has been granted the right to test the series for compliance with the regulations.

Voluntary Control Council for Interference (VCCI) Statement

This equipment is in the second category (information equipment to be used in a residential area or an adjacent area thereto) and conforms to the standards set by the Voluntary Control Council for Interference by Data Processing Equipment and Electronic Office Machines aimed at preventing radio interference in such residential areas.

When used near a radio or TV receiver , it may become the cause of radio interference. Read instructions for correct handling.

Customer Support

Refer to the Support Information Card that shipped with your 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102.

World Wide Web

NETGEAR maintains a World Wide Web home page that you can access at the universal resource locator (URL) http://www.netgear.com. A direct connection to the Internet and a Web browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape are required.

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Chapter 1 About This Manual

Audience, Scope, Conventions, and Formats ................................................................1-1

How to Use This Manual ................................................................................................1-2

How to Print this Manual .................................................................................................1-3

Chapter 2 Introduction

Key Features ..................................................................................................................2-1

802.11g Wireless Networking ...................................................................................2-2

Easy Installation and Management ..........................................................................2-3

Content Filtering in Router Mode .............................................................................2-3

Maintenance and Support .................. .... ... ... ... .......................................... ... .... ... ... ..2-3

Package Contents ..........................................................................................................2-4

The WGX102 Front Panel ........................................................................................2-5

The Label on the Rear Panel of the WGX102 ..........................................................2-6

The WGX102 Bottom Panel .....................................................................................2-6

A Road Map for ‘How to Get There From Here’ ..................................... ... ... ... ... .... ... ..... 2-6

Chapter 3 Installing the XE102 and the WGX102

Prepare to Install Your Range Extender .......................... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..3-1

WGX102 Wall-Plugged Range Extender Operation Modes ......................................... ..3-2

Access Point Mode ..................................................................................................3-2

Router Mode ............................................................................................................3-3

Installing the WGX102 in Access Point Mode ................................................................3-3

Basic Installation Troubleshooting Tips ....................................................................3-7

Logging On to Configure the WGX102 ...........................................................................3-8

Configuring the WGX102 in Access Point Mode .......................................................... 3-10

Configuring the LAN IP Setup Options in Access Point Mode ............... ... ... ... ... .... ... ...3-10

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Chapter 4 Configuring the WGX102 in Router Mode

Connecting the WGX102 to the Internet in Router Mode ...............................................4-2

Manually Configuring Your Internet Connec tion ........................... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..4-7

Manual PPPoE Configuration ..................................................................................4-9

Manual PPTP Configuration ...................................................................................4-10

Configuring the WGX102 in Router Mode ....................................................................4-13

Chapter 5 Wireless Configuration

Observing Performance, Placement, and Range Guidelines .........................................5-1

Implementing Appropriate Wireless Security ..................................................................5-2

Wireless Data Security Options ...............................................................................5-2

Basic Wireless Settings ..................................................................................................5-2

Information to Gather Before Changing Basic Wireless Settings .............................5-5

Default Factory Settings ...........................................................................................5-6

Setting Up and Testing Basic Wireless Connectivity .............................. .................. 5-6

Configuring WEP Security ........................................................................................5-8

Configuring WP A-PSK Wireless Security .....................................................................5-10

Restricting Wireless Access by MAC Address .............................................................5-11

Chapter 6 Maintenance

Configuring the HomePlug Password ................................. ................ ................ ............6-1

Viewing Access Point Status Information .......................................................................6-3

Viewing Router Status Information ............................... ... ... ... .... ... ... ...............................6-6

Viewing a List of Attached Devices .................................................................................6-9

Configuration File Management ...................................................................................6-10

Backing Up the Configuration ................................................................................6-10

Erasing the Configuration .......................................................................................6-11

Upgrading the Range Extender Software .....................................................................6-11

Changing the Administrator Password .........................................................................6-12

Chapter 7 Content Filtering in Router Mode

Content Filtering Overview .............................................................................................7-1

Blocking Access to Internet Sites ...................................................................................7-1

Blocking Access to Internet Services .............................................................................7-3

Configuring a User Defined Service ... .... ... ... .......................................... ... ... .... ... ... ..7-4

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Configuring Services Blocking by IP Address Range ..............................................7-5

Scheduling When Blocking is Enforced ..........................................................................7-5

Viewing Logs of Web Access or Attempted Web Access ...............................................7-6

Configuring E-Mail Alert and Web Access Log Notifications ..........................................7-7

Chapter 8 Advanced Configuration of the WGX102

Configuring Port Triggering .............................................................................................8-1

Configuring Port Forwarding to Local Servers .............. ... ... ... .... ... ... ...............................8-4

Adding a Custom Service ................................ ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ..................................8-5

Local Web and FTP Server Example .......................................................................8-6

Multiple Computers for Half Life, KALI or Quake III Example ..................................8-6

Configuring the WAN Setup Options ..............................................................................8-7

Configuring the LAN IP Setup Options in Router Mode .................................................8-9

Using the WGX102 as a DHCP server ..................................................................8-11

Using Address Reservation ....................................................................................8-12

Configuring Dynamic DNS ............................................................................................8-12

Configuring Static Routes .............................................................................................8-13

Enabling Remote Management Access .......................................................................8-16

Configuring Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) ...............................................................8-17

Chapter 9 Troubleshooting

NETGEAR Product Registration, Support, and Documentation ................................ .....9-1

Basic Functioning ...........................................................................................................9-1

Power Light Not On ..................................................................................................9-2

HomePlug/Internet or Wireless Port Lights Not On ..................................................9-2

Troubleshooting the Web Configuration Interface ..........................................................9-2

Troubleshooting the ISP Connection ..............................................................................9-3

Troubleshooting a TCP/IP Network Using a Ping Utility .................................................9-5

Testing the LAN Path to the WGX102 ......................................................................9-5

Testing the Path from Your Computer to a Remote Device .....................................9-6

Restoring the Default Configuration and Password ............... .........................................9-7

Problems with Date and Time .........................................................................................9-7

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Appendix A Technical Specifications

Appendix B Network, Routing, Firewall, and Basics

Related Publications ...................................................................................................... B-1

Basic Router Concepts .................................................................................................. B-1

What is a Router? ................................................................................................... B-1

Routing Information Protocol ................................................................................... B-2

IP Addresses and the Internet .. ... .... ... ... ... .... ................................................................. B-2

Netmask .................................... ................................................................ ..............B-4

Subnet Addressing .................................................................................................. B-5

Private IP Addresses ................................. ... ... ... .......................................... ........... B-7

Single IP Address Operation Using NAT ....................................................................... B-8

MAC Addresses and Address Resolution Protocol ................................................. B-9

Related Documents ................................................................................................. B-9

Domain Name Server ............................................................................................ B-10

IP Configuration by DHCP ...................................................................... ... ... ... ... ......... B-10

Internet Security and Firewalls .................................................................................... B-10

What is a Firewall? .................................................................................................B-11

Stateful Packet Inspection ............................... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ......B-11

Denial of Service Attack ..................................................................................B-11

Ethernet Cabling ................................. ... ... .... ... .......................................... ... ... ... .... ... ...B-11

Category 5 Cable Quality ...................................................................................... B-12

Inside Twisted Pair Cables .................................................................................... B-13

Uplink Switches, Crossover Cables, and MDI/MDIX Switching ............................ B-14

Appendix C Preparing Your Network

What You Need To Use a Router with a Broadband Modem ......................................... C-1

Cabling and Computer Hardware ............................................................................C-1

Computer Network Configuration Requirements ............................. ... ... ... ... .... ... ... . C-2

Internet Configuration Requirements ...................................................................... C-2

Where Do I Get the Internet Configuration Parameters? ........................................ C-2

Record Your Internet Connection Information ......................................................... C-3

Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking ............................................ .... ... ... . C-4

Configuring Windows 95, 98, and Me for TCP/IP Networking ....................................... C-5

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Install or V erify Windows Networking Components ................................................. C-5

Enabling DHCP to Automatically Configure TCP/IP Settings in Windows 95B, 98, and Me

C-6

Selecting Windows’ Internet Access Method .......................................................... C-9

Verifying TCP/IP Properties .................................................................................... C-9

Configuring Windows NT4, 2000 or XP for IP Networking .......................................... C-10

Install or V erify Windows Networking Components ............................................... C-10

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP, 2000, or NT4 ............................. C-11

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP ................................................... C-11

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows 2000 ................................................ C-13

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows NT4 .................................................. C-16

Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP, 2000, and NT4 ......................... ... .. C-18

Configuring the Macintosh for TCP/IP Networking ...................................................... C-19

MacOS 8.6 or 9.x ...................... ... ... .......................................... ............................ C-19

MacOS X ...... ... .......................................... .......................................... ..................C-20

Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Macintosh Computers ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... .....C-20

Verifying the Readiness of Your Internet Account ....................................................... C-21

Are Login Protocols Used? ................................................................................... C-21

What Is Your Configuration Information? ..............................................................C-21

Obtaining ISP Configuration Information for Windows Computers .......................C-22

Obtaining ISP Configuration Information for Macintosh Computers .....................C-23

Restarting the Network ................................................................................................ C-24

Appendix D Wireless Networking Basics

Wireless Networking Overview .............................. ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ....D-1

Infrastructure Mode .................................................................................................D-1

Ad Hoc Mode (Peer-to-Peer Workgroup) ................................................................ D-2

Network Name: Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) ................................D-2

Authentication and WEP ........................... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... .............................. D-3

802.11 Authentication ..............................................................................................D-3

Open System Authentication .............................. .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ....................... D-4

Shared Key Authentication ......................................................................................D-4

Overview of WEP Parameters ................................................................................ D-5

Key Size .................................................................................................................. D-6

WEP Configuration Options ...................... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ........................................ D-7

Wireless Channels ....................... .... ... ... ... ..................................................................... D-7

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WPA Wireless Security ..................................................................................................D-8

How Does WPA Compare to WEP? ........................................................................ D-9

How Does WPA Compare to IEEE 802.11i? ........................................................ D-10

What are the Key Features of WPA Security? ...................................................... D-10

WPA Authentication: Enterprise-level User

Authentication via 802.1x/EAP and RADIUS ..................................................D-12

WPA Data Encryption Key Management ........................................................D-14

Is WPA Perfect? ........................................ ... ... ... .... .......................................... .....D-16

Product Support for WPA ......................................................................................D-16

Supporting a Mixture of WPA and WEP Wireless Clients is Discouraged ......D-16

Changes to Wireless Access Points ............................................................... D-17

Changes to Wireless Network Adapters .........................................................D-17

Changes to Wireless Client Programs .......................... ......................... ......... D-18

Glossary

List of Glossary Terms ...................................................................................................G-1

Index

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Chapter 1

About This Manual

This chapter describes the intended audience, scope, conventions, and formats of this manual.

Audience, Scope, Conventions, and Formats

This reference manual assumes that the reader has basic to intermediate computer and Internet skills. However, basic computer network, Internet, firewall, and VPN technologies tutorial information is provided in the Appendices and on the NETGEAR Web site.

This guide uses the following typographical conventions:

Table 1-1. Typographical Conventions

italics Emphasis, books, CDs, URL names

bold User input

SMALL CAPS Screen text, file and server names, extensions, commands, IP addresses

This guide uses the following format to highlight special messages:

Note: This format is used to highlight information of importance or special interest.

This manual is written for the WGX102 Wall-Plugged Range Extender according to these specifications.

Table 1-2. Manual Scope

Product Version 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102 Manual Publication Date September 2004

Note: Product updates are available on the NETGEAR Web site at

http://kbserver.netgear.com/products/WGX102.asp.

About This Manual 1

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Reference Manual for the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102

How to Use This Manual

The HTML version of this manual includes a variety of navigation features as well as links to PDF versions of the full manual and individual chapters.

2 3

Figure 1 -1: HTML version of this manual

1. Left pane. Use the left pane to view the Contents, Index, Search, and Favorites tabs.

To view the HTML version of the manual, you must have a version 4 or later browser with JavaScript enabled.

2. Toolbar buttons. Use the toolbar buttons across the top to navigate, print pages, and more.

The Show in Contents button locates the current topic in the Contents tab.

Previous/Next buttons display the previous or next topic.

The PDF button links to a PDF version of the full manual.

The Print button prints the current topic. Click this button when a step-by -step procedure is displayed to send the entire procedure to your printer. You do not have to worry about specifying the correct range of pages.

3. Right pane. Use the right pane to view the contents of the manual. Also, each page of the

manual includes a link at the top right which links to a PDF file containing just the currently selected chapter of the manual.

2 About This Manual

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Reference Manual for the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102

How to Print this Manual

To print this manual you can choose one of the following several options, according to your needs.

• Printing a “How To” Sequence of Steps in the HTML View.

Use the Print button on the upper right of the toolbar to print the currently displayed topic. Use this button when a step-by-step procedure is displayed to send the entire procedure to your printer. You do not have to worry about specifying the correct range of pages.

• Printing a Chapter.

Use the link at the top right of any page. – Click “PDF of This Chapter” link at the top right of any page in the chapter you want to

print. The PDF version of the chapter you were viewing opens in a browser window. Note: Your computer must have the free Adobe Acrobat reader installed in order to view

and print PDF files. The Acrobat reader is available on the Adobe Web site at

http://www.adobe.com.

– Click the print icon in the upper left of the window.

Tip: If your printer supports printing two pages on a single sheet of paper, you can save paper and printer ink by selecting this feature.

• Printing the Full Manual.

Use the PDF button in the toolbar at the top right of the browser window. – Click the PDF button on the upper right of the toolbar. The PDF version of the

chapter you were viewing opens in a browser window.

– Click the print icon in the upper left of the window.

Tip: If your printer supports printing two pages on a single sheet of paper, you can save paper and printer ink by selecting this feature.

About This Manual 3

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Reference Manual for the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102

4 About This Manual

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Chapter 2

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of the NETGEAR® 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102. The WGX102 Wall-Plugged Range Extender can perform in either Access Point (AP) Mode or in Router Mode, depending on the configuration:

• Access Point (AP) Mode — serves as a wireless range extender.

• Router Mode — provides a wireless connection for multiple computers to the Internet through an external broadband access device (such as a cable modem or DSL modem) that is normally intended for use by a single computer.

This chapter describes the features of the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102.

Key Features

Note: This manual provides information on the complete features as of the date of publication. Earlier versions of this product may not have all the features presented in this manual. Go to http://kbserver.netgear.com/products/WGX102.asp where you will find product firmware updates for your WGX102.

The 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102 connects your local area network (LAN) to the Internet through an XE102 Wall-Plugged Ethernet Bridge and an external access device such as a cable modem or DSL modem.

With minimum setup, you can install and use the range extender within minutes, without the need to run Ethernet cable throughout your home.

Introduction 2-1

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Reference Manual for the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102

The WGX102 W all-Plugged Range Extender provides the following features:

• 802.11g wireless networking, with the ability to operate in 80 2.11g-only, or 802.11b+g modes.

• Easy, Web-based setup for installation and management.

• Extensive protocol support.

• Login capability

• Front panel LEDs for easy monitoring of status and activity.

• Flash memory for firmware upgrades.

802.11g Wireless Networking

The WGX102 W all-Plugged Range Extender includes an 802.11g wireless access point, providing continuous, high-speed 54 Mbps access between your wireless and wall-plugged devices. The access point provides:

• 802.11g wireless networking at up to 54 Mbps.

• Operates in 802.11g-only, 802.11b-only, or 802.11g and b modes. Provides backwards compatibility with 802.11b devices or dedicates the wireless network to the higher bandwidth

802.11g devices.

• 64-bit and 128-bit WEP encryption security.

• WEP keys can be generated manually or by passphrase.

• WPA-PSK support. Support for Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) data encryption which provides strong data encryption and authentication based on a pre-shared key.

• Wireless access can be restricted by MAC address.

• Wireless network name broadcast can be turned off so that only devices that have the network name (SSID) can connect.

2-2 Introduction

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Reference Manual for the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102

Easy Installation and Management

You can install, configure, and operate the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102 within minutes after connecting it to the network. The following features simplify installation and management tasks:

• Browser-based management Browser-based configuration allows you to easily configure your range extender from almost any type of personal computer, such as Wi ndows, Macintosh, or Linux. A user-friendly Setup Wizard is provided and online help documentation is built into the browser-based Web Management Interface.

• Firmware Updates The WGX102 Wall-Plugged Range Extender can be updated if a newer version of firmware is available. This lets you take advantage of product enhancements for your WGX102 as soon as they become available.

• Visual monitoring The WGX102 W all-Plugged Range Extender’s front panel LEDs provide an easy way to monitor its status and activity .

Content Filtering in Router Mode

When used in Router Mode, the WGX102 provides you with multiple Web content filtering options, plus browsing activity reporting and instant alerts via e-mail. Parents and network administrators can establish restricted access policies based on time of day, Web site addresses and address keywords. High-speed cable/DSL Internet access lines can be shared between multiple computers. In addition to the Network Address Translation (NAT) feature, the built-in firewall protects you from hackers.

Maintenance and Support

NETGEAR offers the following features to help you maximize your use of the WGX102 Wall-Plugged Range Extender:

• Flash memory for firmware upgrades.

• Free technical support seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day, for 90 days from the date of purchase.

Introduction 2-3

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Reference Manual for the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102

Package Contents

The product package should contain the following items:

• 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102.

• Wall-Plugged Ethernet Bridge XE102.

• NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102 Resource CD (240-10088-01), including:

— This guide. — Installation Guide for the WGX102. — Application Notes and other helpful information.

• NETGEAR Wall-Plugged Ethernet Bridge XE102 User’s Guide.

• Registration, Warranty Card, and Support Information Card.

If any of the parts are incorrect, missing, or damaged, contact your NETGEAR dealer. Keep the carton, including the original packing materials, in case you need to return the range extender for repair.

2-4 Introduction

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Reference Manual for the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102

The WGX102 Front Panel

The front panel of the WGX102 Wall-Plugged Range Extender contains the status lights described below.

Figure 2-1: WGX102 Front Panel

You can use the status lights to verify connections. Viewed from top to bottom, the table below describes the lights on the front panel of the range extender.

Table 2-1. Status Light Descriptions

Label Activity Description

Power On Green Solid

HomePlug — AP Mode

Internet — Router Mode

Wireless On

Blink Off

On Off

Blink Off

Power is supplied to the WGX102. Power on self test. Power is not supplied to the WGX102.

The HomePlug port (or Internet port in Router Mode) has detected a link with an attached device. No devices are attached on the Powerline network.

The Wireless port is initialized and the wireless feature is enabled. Data is being transmitted or received by the wireless port. There is a problem with the device. See Chapter 9,

“Troubleshooting”.

Introduction 2-5

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Reference Manual for the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102

The Label on the Rear Panel of the WGX102

The label on the rear panel of the WGX102 contains the items listed below.

• MAC address

• Model number

• Serial number

• Unique device Passcode (PWD)

The WGX102 Bottom Panel

The factory default reset push button is located on the bottom panel of the WGX102, as shown below.

Figure 1-2: WGX102 Underside

If you press the reset button for less than 15 seconds, the WGX102 does a soft reset, similar to unplugging and then plugging the device in again.

When you press the reset button for 15 seconds or more, the WGX102 resets to the factory defaults, as described in “Restoring the Default Configuration and Password” on page 9-7.

A Road Map for ‘How to Get There From Here’

The introduction and adoption of any new technology can be a difficult process. Broadband Internet service is considered so useful that more and more people want to set up networks in their home to share a broadband connection. Wireless technology has removed one of the barriers to networking—running wires. It allows more people to try networking while at the same time exposes them to the inherent complexity of networking. General networking concepts, setup, and maintenance can be difficult to understand. In addition, wireless technology adds issues, such as range, interference, signal quality, and security to the picture.

2-6 Introduction

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Reference Manual for the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102

To help overcome potential barriers to successfully using home networks, the table below identifies how to accomplish such things as connecting to a wireless network, assuring appropriate security measures are taken, browsing the Internet through your wireless connection, exchanging files with other computers and using printers in the combined wireless and wired network.

Table 2-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here

If I Want To? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I? Set up a

wireless network

Protect my wireless connection

from snooping, hacking, or information theft.

Note: Secure Internet sites such as banks and online merchants use encryption security built into browsers like Internet Explorer and Netscape. Any wireless networking security features you might impleme n t are in addition to those already in place on secure Internet sites.

1. Set up the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102.

2. Identify the wireless network name (SSID) and, if used, the wireless security settings.

3. Set up the wireless computers with the settings used in Step 2.

1. Assure that the wireless network has security features enabled.

2. Configure my WGX102 with the security settings of the wireless network.

3. Use Windows security features.

4. Set passwords for the WGX102 and Ethernet Bridge XE102.

• A computer with a wireless Network Interface Card

• The computer must be within the operating range of the wireless network. For guidelines about the range of wireless networks, see “Observing

Performance, Placement, and Range Guidelines” on page 5-1.

• A wireless network WEP or WPA security enabled.

• Wireless networking equipment that supports WEP or WPA, such as the WGX102.

• Factory default password shown on the label on the back of the WGX102 and Ethernet Bridge XE102.

To set up the WGX102, see

Chapter 3, “Installing the XE102 and the WGX102” and follow the

instructions provided.

To learn about wireless networking technology, see

Chapter 5, “Wireless Configuration” for a general

introduction.

To learn about wireless networking security, see

“Wireless Networking Basics” on page D-1.

To use WEP security features, see “Implementing Appropriate

Wireless Security” on page 5-2

and configure your WGX102 accordingly.

To change the password for the WGX102 and Ethernet Bridge XE102 see “Changing the

Administrator Password” on page 6-12.

Introduction 2-7

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Table 2-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here

If I Want To? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I? Share

Windows PC files and printers at

home in a combined wireless and wired network.

Note: For sharing files and printers on other types of computers like Macintosh or Linux, refer to the product documentation that came with those computers.

1. Use the Windows Printers and Fax features to locate available printers in the combined wireless and wired network in your home.

2. Use the Windows Add a Printer wizard to add access to a network printer from the PC you are using to wirelessly connect to the network.

3. From the File menu of an application such as Microsoft Word, use the Print Setup feature to direct your print output to the printer in the network.

• Windows computers (wired and wireless) that I am using to connect to the network need to be configured with the Windows Client and File and Print Sharing.

• Windows computers (wired and wireless) that I am using to connect to the network need to be configured with the same Windows Workgroup or Domain settings as the other Windows computers in the combined wireless and wired network.

• Any Windows networking security access rights such as login user name/ password that have been assigned in the Windows network must be provided when Windows prompts for such information.

• If so-called Windows ‘peer’ networking is being used, the printer needs to be enabled for sharing.

Windows Domain settings are usually managed by corporate computer support groups.

Windows Workgroup settings are commonly managed by individuals who want to set up small networks in their homes, or small offices.

For assistance with setting up Windows networking, refer to the PC Networking Tutorial on the

NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102 Resource CD (240-10088-01) and the Help

information provided in the Windows system you are using.

For assistance with setting up printers in Windows, refer to the Help and Support information that comes with the version of the Windows operating systems you are using.

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Chapter 3

Installing the XE102 and the WGX102

This chapter describes how to set up the XE102 and WGX102 on your local area network (LAN) and connect to the Internet. There are two operation modes for the 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102 — Access Point Mode and Router Mode. The WGX102 can be used immediately with no further configuration in Access Point Mode as described in this chapter and in the WGX102 Installation Guide.

T o use the WGX102 in Router Mode, you must perform some basic configuration, as described in

Chapter 4, “Configuring the WGX102 in Router Mode”.

Follow these instructions to set up your range extender.

Prepare to Install Your Range Extender

• Do not connect the WGX102 or the XE102 into a power strip, extension cord, uninterruptable power supply (UPS), or surge protector as this may prevent the range extender from working properly or degrade the network performance.

• Each computer that will use the WGX102 Wall-Plugged Range Extender must have a wireless card installed and configured.

• Observe the wireless placement and range guidelines in “Observing Performance, Placement,

and Range Guidelines” on page 5-1.

• For Cable Modem Service: When you perform the range extender setup steps be sure to use the computer you first set up your cable Internet connection.

• For DSL Service: You may need information such as the DSL login name/e-mail address and password in order to complete the range extender setup.

Before proceeding with the range extender installation, familiarize yourself with the contents of the NETGEAR 54 Mbps Wall-Plugged Wireless Range Extender WGX102 Resource CD (240-10088-01), especially this manual and the animated tutorials for configuring networking on PCs.

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Note: The WGX102 is designed for easy installation in access point mode, and can be used with

multiple XE102 W all-Pl ugged Ethernet Bridges in this mode. However , if you choose to configure the WGX102 in Router Mode, you can only use one XE102 and you must be sure of the correct IP addresses during the configuration procedure.

WGX102 Wall-Plugged Range Extender Operation Modes

The WGX102 can be immediately used without configuration in Access Point Mode, or can perform more functions in Router Mode. With Router Mode installation, the WGX102 functions as the only router in the network.

Access Point Mode

In Access Point Mode, the WGX102 acts as an Access Point for your wireless devices, and provides a means of communication between your wireless LAN and wall-plugged LAN. In this configuration, the WGX102 wall plug connection becomes a LAN port and the DHCP server is disabled. T o use the WGX102 in Access Point Mode, you will need to have another device such as a router with DHCP enabled in order to access the Internet.

Figure 3-1: WGX102 in Access Point Mode

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Router Mode

In Router Mode, the WGX102 provides all the functions of Access Point Mode, plus the following services:

• Shared Internet Access — the wall plug port becomes the WAN port, and if a broadband modem is connected to it through an XE102, the WGX102 can provide Internet access to your entire wireless LAN.

• DHCP Server — the WGX102 can act as DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server, which provides the IP address and other TCP/IP configuration for the all the computers that are connected to the range extender through the wireless network. In Router Mode, using this feature is recommended, and it is enabled by default.

Figure 3-2: WGX102 in Router Mode

Installing the WGX102 in Access Point Mode

1. FIRST, CONNECT THE XE102 WALL-PLUGGED ETHERNET BRIDGE

a. Use the Ethernet cable that shipped with the product to connect the XE102 Wall-Plugged

Ethernet bridge to a LAN port on your router.

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b. Plug the XE102 into an electrical outlet near the router.

Wall-Plugged Ethernet Bridge XE102

Router

Power Internet

Figure 3-3: XE102 connected to a LAN port on your router

LAN

Ports

c. Shut down and restart your wireless computer.

2. PLUG THE WGX102 INTO A WALL OUTLET

a. Plug the WGX102 into an electrical outlet near the wireless computer that you want to

connect, and wait one minute. All three LEDs on the WGX102 will light up.

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Figure 3-4: WGX102 located near a wireless computer

b. Check the range extender status lights to verify the following:

• Power: The power light should turn solid green. If it does not, see “Basic Installation

Troubleshooting Tips” on page 3-7.

• HomePlug/Internet: The Internet port light should be lit. If not, make sure the Ethernet cable on the XE102 is securely attached to the Internet port on the router, that the router is connected to the modem, and the modem is powered on.

• Wireless: The Wireless light should be lit. If the Wireless light is not lit, see “Basic

Installation Troubleshooting Tips” on page 3-7.

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3. NOW, CONFIGURE YOUR COMPUTER’S WIRELESS ADAPTER SETTINGS

:LUHOHVV$GDSWHULQD 1RWHERRN&RPSXWHU

Figure 3-5: Configure wireless computer

a. NETGEAR, Inc. wireless adapters display a list of available wireless networks, and, when

wireless security is disabled, you simply choose yours from the list on the Networks tab and click Connect. On the Settings tab page, NETGEAR is the default wireless Network Name (SSID) and security is disabled by default, as shown below.

Figure 3-6: NETGEAR Adapter screen, Settings page

b. For a non-NETGEAR wireless adapter, configure it to match your settings exactly. If you

changed the default Network Name (SSID), be sure to use the correct Network Name (SSID) you set in the range extender.

WIRELESS FEATURE DEFAULT SETTING

Network Name (SSID) NETGEAR

WEP Security Disabled

Warning: The Network Name (SSID) is case sensitive. Typing nETgear will not work.

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c. You may connect additional XE102 bridges to connect more computers to your network.

Note: Wi reless security is disabled by default on the WGX102. For information about configuring

the WGX102 to use security settings, see Chapter 5, “Wireless Configuration”.

4. TEST YOUR WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY

Verify wireless connectivity. Connect to the Internet or log in to the range extender from a computer with a wireless adapter. For wireless connectivity problems, see “Basic Installation

Troubleshooting Tips” on page 3-7.

You are now wirelessly connected to the Internet! Implement wireless security according to the instructions in “Implementing Appropriate Wireless Security” on page 5-2.

Basic Installation Troubleshooting Tips

Here are some tips for correcting simple problems you may have.

Be sure to restart your network in this sequence:

1) Turn off the modem, range extender, and computer; 2) Turn on the modem, wait two minutes; 3) Turn on the range extender and wait one minute; 4) Turn on the computer.

Make sure the Ethernet cable is securely plugged into the XE102.

The Internet status light on the range extender will be lit if the Ethernet cable from the XE102 to your router is plugged in securely and the modem and router are turned on.

Make sure the wireless settings in the computer and router match exactly.

The Wireless Network Name (SSID) and WEP or WPA settings of the router and wireless computer must match exactly.

Make sure the network settings of the computer are correct.

LAN and wirelessly connected computers must be configured to obtain an IP address automatically via DHCP. Please see Appendix C, “Preparing Your Network” or the animated tutorials on the CD for help with this.

Check the WGX102 status lights to verify correct range extender operation.

• If the Power light does not turn solid green within two minutes after turning the range extender on, reset the range extender according to the instructions in “Restoring the Default

Configuration and Password” on page 9-7.

• If the Wireless light does not come on, verify that the wireless feature is turned on according to the instructions in “Basic Wireless Settings” on page 5-2.

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Logging On to Configure the WGX102

1. Connect to the range extender by typing http://192.168.0.101 in the address field of your browser, then click Enter.

2. For security reasons, the range extender has its own user name and password. When prompted, enter admin for the user name and password for the password, both in lower case letters. To change the password, see “Changing the Administrator Password” on page 6-12.

Note: The range extender user name and password are not the same as any user name or password you may use to log in to your Internet connection.

Figure 3-7: Login window

3. Once you have entered your user name and password, your Web browser should find the WGX102 Wall-Plugged Range Extender and display the AP/Router page as shown below.

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